IWSD Methodology

IWSD draws from the immense wealth of knowledge in Chinese Wushu, but is by no means limited to Chinese Wushu. All viable skills and knowledge from Japanese Wushu (i.e., Karate), Korean Wushu (i.e., Tae Kwan Do) and other recognized non-Chinese Wushu have been, and will continue to be incorporated into the Wushu Sanshou Dao system. In fact, many of our members have an extensive background and martial skills from non-Chinese styles.

The IWSD Association training consists of six major components:

Free sparring techniques

Take down and ground fighting techniques

Taiji (Tai Chi) Push Hands techniques

Qinna (Chin Na) and pressure point attack

Internal energy (qigong) training

Martial arts routine training

The training content and concept of IWSD is not new. In fact, it is simply a returning to the original content of traditional Chinese Wushu — kicking (Ti), arm strikes (Da), takedowns (Shuai), control (Na).

In Chinese Wushu, shuaijiao training is used to develop one's ability to take an opponent down; qinna training is used to develop one's grappling ability and pressure point attack; and qigong is used for internal energy training. Other martial traditions and styles may have their specific method of training these components. As long as they fit within the framework of the IWSD Association and are practical in martial arts applications, they will be accepted for a rank review.

Routine training is an excellent method to integrate physical power with one's vitality. It develops alertness and concentration; increases power, endurance, speed, and flexibility; develops proper movement rhythm and jumping ability; and improves posture and accuracy of martial techniques. The advantages of routine training also assists in developing a solid foundation for other components of the Wushu Sanshou Dao training. Proficiency in routines can also be used in national and international competitions.

The basic techniques and skills of the IWSD Association are to be applicable in actual combat. The six major components in the IWSD Association training are not meant to be trained and applied separately. Instead, they should be integrated into a seamless web of skills which are versatile for dealing with different circumstances that may arise in real combat. Each component alone, however, is more suited for certain types of circumstances.

Punching and kicking are more suitable for medium to long range fighting. This is because the distance between opponents allows for the powerful and effective use of punches and kicks. As the distance between the opponents gets closer, close range applications, such as, the use of elbows and knees becomes critical. Even more effective are the wrestling techniques when the distance is too close for an effective strike. In this range, Wushu Sanshou Dao strongly emphasizes wrestling techniques.

While actions are typically stopped when the opponents are clutching onto each other in boxing, full contact Karate, and Kick Boxing; in Wushu Sanshou Dao, the action will continue into wrestling techniques. When opponents attempt to neutralize each other and prevent themselves from being thrown; grappling techniques become the next natural application skill. At this very close range, the pressure point and joint locks involved in qinna, become very effective.

The function of Push Hands (tuishou), such as that which is trained in Taijiquan, allows the Wushu Sanshou Dao martial artist to develop mobile and efficient footwork in sidestepping and in controlling the opponent's body momentum. The sensitivity, yielding, neutralizing, leading, ... ability developed through Push Hands training will enhance the martial artist's fighting ability in many ways, including stamina, regulation of breathing, channeling of energy, etc.

The ultimate goal of Wushu Sanshou Dao is to nurture and develop the complete martial artist — one who is skilled in long and short range fighting; in arm strikes, kicking, grappling, wrestling, and pressure point attack; is capable of using internal and physical strength; and is morally righteous with an absolute control over one's own mind and body.

IWSD training is not limited to any particular style of martial arts system. Its training incorporates the usable and advantageous components of different systems to nurture the wellrounded martial artists. Members that currently belong to other martial arts organizations are welcome to join IWSD, and are encouraged to continue with their current affiliation to other martial arts organizations.

On the other hand, the well rounded training and knowledge of IWSD provides our members with the opportunity to participate in other martial arts systems' competition activities such as: the Chinese Wushu routine and fighting competitions; and Karate, Tae Kwan Do, Judo, Shuaijiao, and Jujitsu competitions. Members that are not interested in competition will also find that the well-rounded training can develop and improve one's physical state for better health, and mental state to be able to deal with adverse situations with greater ease. We believe that IWSD members will be known as one of the most well-rounded martial artists both in knowledge and abilities. They will become the best friends and teachers for martial arts enthusiast all over the world.

Our Advisors are distinguished individuals from different nations who have contributed to the development of martial arts with high achievements in the field. They are the highly respected members of IWSD